The
City of St. Petersburg introduced a new online reference guide for small businesses that will provide more than 150 links and easy access to city assistance programs, business incentives, marketing tools, databases and more.
The city listened to feedback provided by 219 small business owners who attended the Small Business Summit last year in March. They requested greater accessibility to relevant and timely business support services, and
StPeteSBR.org was born.
"The Small Business Reference Guide is a request from the business community," says Kimberly Bailey, economic development coordinator. "It is an asset tool that they really wanted and we researched for a good four months to pull as much relevant information and items for small business owners."
The city's
Business Assistance Center, which offers business counseling, training and access to capital and credit for start-ups and established businesses, will also list services and program offerings on the website.
The city's efforts are an innovative way for them to encourage small business growth and encourage individuals to explore entrepreneurship.
"This city has been built on the backs of small businesses, and the city is committed to working to retain and strengthen our small businesses. We hope business owners will find the new online reference guide an important tool for doing business - and succeeding - in St. Petersburg," says Mayor Bill Foster.
Writer:
Nancy VaughnSource: Kimberly Bailey, City of St. Petersburg
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